"F" Word
It would appear that the use of the “F” word is becoming more frequent, in most medias. What was once referred to as a no-no is now commonplace. If a movie has an “R” rating, one can pretty much expect its use, and repeatedly, with no genre being safe. In recent movies, the number count of the “F” word was mentioned more than the movie itself.
It has even worked its way into network TV programs with a warning of “Adult Language,” which in itself is incorrect. All adults don’t use offensive language. Perhaps they could just post “Offensive/Vulgar Language.”
The use of the “F” word in books, in one regard, is even worse for readers who might be offended, since there is no warning. Some authors justify such language because it contributes to realistic dialogue. However, there have been many successful authors who have been able to create compelling stories without it. I wonder if a rating system will someday be given to books as can now be seen on CDs, such as “Parental Advisory, Explicit Lyrics.” I’m sure some will say, “If you don’t like it, don’t read it or watch it.” As far as a TV program or movie, I agree, but in the case of a book without a warning, it’s impossible to know.
Have you ever been embarrassed while watching a movie or TV show with your parents or your children? Hearing words your parents taught you not to use or hearing words that you’ve told your kids were bad?
I’m sure some will see this as the writing of a bible-thumper or goody-two-shoes. So be it. This is the audience I write for. It’s the kind of book I read, which includes many “A-list” authors. I will never be ashamed of what I have written when my family, or anyone else reads them, and they will be out there a long time.
For those who prefer, by choice, not to read books with this word or other offensive words, please be assured that my books, The Jack Trader Adventures, do not. A mild swear word might appear, but rarely. I would rate my adventure books at PG-13.
One possible solution for the lack of warnings on books would be for book reviewers to make mention of it if there is pervasive use of offensive language.
It has even worked its way into network TV programs with a warning of “Adult Language,” which in itself is incorrect. All adults don’t use offensive language. Perhaps they could just post “Offensive/Vulgar Language.”
The use of the “F” word in books, in one regard, is even worse for readers who might be offended, since there is no warning. Some authors justify such language because it contributes to realistic dialogue. However, there have been many successful authors who have been able to create compelling stories without it. I wonder if a rating system will someday be given to books as can now be seen on CDs, such as “Parental Advisory, Explicit Lyrics.” I’m sure some will say, “If you don’t like it, don’t read it or watch it.” As far as a TV program or movie, I agree, but in the case of a book without a warning, it’s impossible to know.
Have you ever been embarrassed while watching a movie or TV show with your parents or your children? Hearing words your parents taught you not to use or hearing words that you’ve told your kids were bad?
I’m sure some will see this as the writing of a bible-thumper or goody-two-shoes. So be it. This is the audience I write for. It’s the kind of book I read, which includes many “A-list” authors. I will never be ashamed of what I have written when my family, or anyone else reads them, and they will be out there a long time.
For those who prefer, by choice, not to read books with this word or other offensive words, please be assured that my books, The Jack Trader Adventures, do not. A mild swear word might appear, but rarely. I would rate my adventure books at PG-13.
One possible solution for the lack of warnings on books would be for book reviewers to make mention of it if there is pervasive use of offensive language.
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